A lot of excitement is generated when it is time to take out jet ski PWC (personal watercraft). There is nothing quite like a day on the water with friends and in the sun. If your watercraft is streamlined and ready to go, you can expect the best possible recreational experience. It just takes a bit of maneuvering to get it launched. With these tips, you can be sure of the perfect time, every time.
 Everyone needs practice
Even the veteran driver of a PWC needs to practice as they can get rusty. Skills have to be honed in the off season. You can avail yourself of a nearby parking lot as a practice pad for launching. There are recommended techniques and you can bring along a buddy who clearly knows the ropes. What looks easy at first may surprise you at first. Don’t make the beginner’s mistake of not practicing before launching where it is very busy and congested. You can create lanes with objects like orange cones to help you learn to maneuver.
Prepare ahead
After sufficient practice, you should be comfortable with the new mindset of reverse steering as you are backing your PWC into the water. Some people like to use a technique of holding the steering wheel at the bottom with your palms up. Get used to this technique, and avoid sudden movements of the steering, and soon you will be on your way.
Watch out
You are now ready to reach the docking area. Be sure there is no hindrance to your launch. It is entirely possible to encounter some kind of ramp obstruction. There can be traffic on a busy day impairing a clear path for your watercraft. You may even have to wait in line if you didn’t beat the early birds.
Final Check
A good rule of thumb is to take advantage of any waiting time to finish your preparations. Continue to check the ramp width and any impediments, the water depth, and steepness. You should try to imagine how you are going to proceed step by step.
Easy does it
Launching starts with backing up onto the ramp after all covers are removed from the PWC. Of course, the rear tie-down straps must be released and the drain plugs be tightened. Any electrical hookups are now ready to unplug. You will have loaded anything you want to use during the day on the water such as food and drink. After the launch, it may be too late.
Fire it up
Next you test the watercraft’s engine to ensure a quick start, but there is no need to let it keep running while still on land. Most people have a four-wheel drive to make the launch a snap because backing up is easier. It is time to attach a rope to the handlebars of your vehicle.
During the launch
During the launch, with all signals go, you will keep your PCW running, yet not too deep in the water to prevent flooding. The backup position is straight while you are in neutral to avoid accidentally pressing the accelerator. Use your companion to help and, of course, all installed mirrors for this purpose. Once the PCW is in the water, your car or van will be placed in park with the handbrake on. Now the chain connecting the two vehicles can be undone and the winch let out—always in that order.
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